Circus Vargas is circus. If you want to get the feel and flavor of what a real circus is all about, Circus Vargas is the ticket with a modern splash.
Created from a dream of Clifford E. Vargas in 1969, Circus Vargas has evolved into a more modern species with new, forward-looking owners, while still holding the thread that makes it an old-fashioned circus.
The key word for this whole production is friendliness. From the time you enter the modern big top to being seated, all staff are relaxed, helpful, pleasant and – interestingly enough – most are related to one another. This is a real family circus. There is a relaxed, laid-back feeling that permeates the area while still giving off the feeling of anticipation of the circus.
To my delight, this is an intimate one-ring circus (I usually go bonkers trying to keep track of three rings). Best of all, this is almost a vegetarian presentation. (What a relief. I have always been uncomfortable watching elephants, lions and tigers going through behaviors they really do not want to go through.)
Circus Vargas embraces the idea that the circus is really for kids. It delights the little ones more than its counterparts that present a circus on different levels. This is the most kid-friendly traveling circus anywhere. It involves toddlers to teens, giving them the thrill of a lifetime while they actually participate in the fun and fantasy. Adults are also incorporated, with good-natured prodding, in an amusing section that entertains without anyone losing his or her dignity.
All the performers seem to enjoy themselves. There is a joie de vie in their presentation. Hitting their mark is important, but it seems more important for them to have fun while getting there. They make magic, they fly, they dance, they spin, they balance stuff and they spoof. The clowns don’t waste time, they get the job done to the delight of the audience.
Circus Vargas may not be as bombastic and glittery as some of its counterparts but they entertain and – best of all – you leave the big top with a feeling that all is right with the world. In this day and age, that’s worth the price of admission.
Camille Bounds is the theatre, arts and entertainment editor for Sunrise Publications.
